magistrate's court

noun

a court having limited jurisdiction over minor civil and criminal matters, as matters of contract not exceeding a particular amount of money.
police court.

magistrates' court

(in England) a court of summary jurisdiction held before two or more justices of the peace or a stipendiary magistrate to deal with minor crimes, certain civil actions, and preliminary hearings

First recorded in 1865–70

He pleaded guilty at Uxbridge Magistrates Court and is due to be sentenced.

Mr Taylor made his first appearance in court today, at a low-ranking magistrates court.

Officers were appointed, a magistrates court formed, proclamations issued, and establishments of various kinds commenced.

I answered in the affirmative, and our visitor announced himself as the huissier of the magistrates court.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

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